Burnsville, Minnesota: According to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, two police officers and a paramedic were killed in Burnsville on Sunday morning.
Burnsville: Walz mentioned that additional officers sustained injuries. According to a source speaking to WCCO, all three individuals who lost their lives were victims of gunfire.
Earlier reports from Dakota County dispatch indicated that authorities were attending to a situation involving weapons in the vicinity.
While details remain scarce, there was a notable law enforcement presence observed on the 12000 block of 33rd Avenue. A WCCO team on-site witnessed fire trucks, ambulances, police cars, and SWAT vehicles. Notably, one of the SWAT vehicles displayed visible bullet holes on its windshield.
Walz said authorities were “responding to a call of a family in danger.”
Jason Skog, a resident of the neighborhood, recounted hearing what resembled a firecracker or a flash-bang around 5 a.m., followed by gunfire. Subsequently, authorities instructed residents to seek shelter in place.
Meanwhile, at Hennepin Healthcare in downtown Minneapolis, a gathering of police officers and first responders from various cities convened to demonstrate solidarity and offer assistance. Hennepin Healthcare, recognized as a level one trauma center, often receives injured officers for treatment.
Social media platforms are witnessing an outpouring of support and condolences from Minnesota state leaders and numerous law enforcement agencies, emphasizing the unity and solidarity within the community during this difficult time.
“We must never take for granted the bravery and sacrifices our first responders make each and every day,” Walz said in a press release. “The call that these public servants’ families had anticipated but knew was coming arrived today. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families; the State of Minnesota is prepared to offer assistance in any manner we can. This loss for our state is devastating.”
Beginning at sunrise on Monday, Walz issued an order to fly the flag at half staff.
Burnsville is a Minneapolis suburb located in the south.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for more information.
